Hear behind-the-scenes local reflections on the Heart of Hyde Park, a landmark mural (and love letter to the community) that was created by and with members of the Hyde Park community. We’re debuting it in honor of National Arts and Humanities Month to celebrate art as a community connector. 

Located on the US Bank Building across the street from the future Hyde Park Station (currently under construction as part of the Crenshaw/LAX Transit Project), The Heart of Hyde Park mural features portraits of neighborhood businesses, people and stories. As part of the first/last mile experience, the mural will brighten the corner of Crenshaw and Slauson for transit riders and all people who live, work and play in the area.

Lead artist Moses Ball worked on the mural with assistance from rising artist Dezmond Crockett and apprentice Amani Holbert. HOPE Hyde Park member Assata Umoja coordinated the involvement by local youth who gathered the community stories depicted in the mural. 

The project was a community-driven effort led by local arts organization LA Commons– who owns and maintains the mural– with technical assistance from Metro Art. Community partners included HOPE (Hyde Park Organizational Partnership for Empowerment), Park Mesa Heights Community Council and Los Angeles City Council District 8. Funding was provided by Transportation for America.  

Check out photos from the mural’s dedication back in May 2019 here. 

Learn more about the Crenshaw/LAX Transit Project art program here.   

Click here for more information about Metro’s art program. Follow Metro Art on Facebook and Instagram and subscribe for email updates.